Sukhbir was commenting on Amarinder’s criticism of PM Narendra Modi ‘s statement in which the PM had said that India’s nuclear weapons were not meant to be used merely as Diwali fireworks. “Amarinder’s self contradictory statements on Pakistan reveal a confusion which only he can explain. He has never thought it fit to criticise Pakistan utterly irresponsible army Generals and leaders who never miss an opportunity to remind India that their (Pak’s) has not made nuclear bombs as playthings but will be used against India. Prime Minister Modi’s statement comes only after repeated blackmailing nuclear threats from Pak’s reckless leaders. Why does Amarinder never speak about that and why should it trouble you only when India responds to those threats?” asked the SAD chief, adding that Narendra Modi has effectively called Pakistan’s nuclear bluff.

Addressing his first public meeting after being named as the party’s Lok Sabha candidate from Ferozepur, Mr Badal thanked the party and its rank and file for reposing faith in him. He revealed a three pronged program for his part in the days ahead. “We will rid Punjab from those who had betrayed not only Punjabis but even the great Guru Sahibaan by undertaking a false oath in the name of the Tenth Master Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji. We will rid Punjab from repression and maladministration. And we will launch massive development and modernisation initiatives to take Punjab into the advanced world with next-generation economic growth and reform measures. “

Sukhbir said that the SAD is committed to leveraging Punjab’s fiscal rights on central revenue to transform the face of rural and urban Punjab. All 12500 villages of the state will be provided water supply, sewerage, concrete streets and street lighting at par with urban areas. “

The SAD chief came down heavily on the Amarinder govt for not implementing all people friendly and pro poor initiatives such as suvidha centres, pensions, Shagun, SC scholarships , Rs100000 interest free loans, Rs 50000 free medical treatment and Rs 5 lakh accidental death insurance- all for farmers and small traders. Similarly they have discontinued assistance of free treatment to cancer patients up to Rs 1.50 Lakhs.